1971 Austin 3 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 817 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Volkswagen T5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Austin 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 80 L |
